Photograph:
Macair Merlin GT 19-7094 (c/n W187) taxiing (Author’s collection)
Country of origin:
Canada
Description:
Two-seat light sporting aircraft
Power Plant:
One 48 kw (65 hp) Rotax 582 two-cylinder two-stroke liquid-cooled engine
Specifications:
- Wingspan: 9.14 m (30 ft)
- Length: 6.09 m (20 ft)
- Height: 1.98 m (6 ft 5 in)
- Wing area: 15.5 m² (167 sq ft)
- Max speed: 193 km/h (120 mph)
- Cruising speed: 134 km/h (83 mph)
- Stalling speed: 55 km/h (34 mph)
- Rate of climb: 366 m/min (1,200 ft/min)
- Service ceiling: 5,486 m (18,000 ft)
- Fuel capacity: 60.5 litres (13.3 Imp gals)
- Range: 536 km (333 miles)
- Empty weight: 218 kg (480 lb)
- Loaded: 590 kg (1,300 lb)
History:
The Merlin was designed in 1986 by John Burch in Canada as a two-seat light aircraft for the amateur construction market. Powered by the Rotax 582 engine, to make it simple the construction of the fuselage was of steel tube covered with fabric, the engine cowling being of fiberglass. Seating is for two, side-by-side, the aircraft having a centrally mounted control stick so it can be flown from either seat.
The aircraft is known for its rugged durability, ground handling stability, and simple construction. A roomy aircraft, it has good STOL and rough field capabilities. Normally fitted with a steerable tailwheel, it can also be fitted with skis, floats, or a tricycle undercarriage. Engines ranging from 45 kw to 90 kw (60 hp to 120 hp) may be installed. More than 350 kits have been sold.
Originally known as the Macair Merlin, the Merlin GT was later one of a series of light aircraft marketed by Aerocomp Inc from Merritt Island, Florida. A number have been built in this region, most being registered under AUF / RAA regulations. First of the type registered in Australia was VH-UAS (c/n W181), a Merlin GT registered in Western Australia. This aircraft later was registered with Recreational Aircraft Australia and became 19-7094 (c/n W187).